The Highway Code Updates 8 months on 

Stopping for pedestrians while exiting a roundabout has been an issue for me. On a couple of occasions I've gone through because a vehicle behind had gotten too close, and on a couple of other occasions I've stopped only for mopeds/scooters to pass me and go through, in one case getting close to the pedestrians. As a pedestrian I'm still very reluctant to use "my" priority in these situations.

I think most pedestrians don't actually want people to stop and wait for them. They want to wait for their own gap to appear and cross in their own time. I think this new rule is flawed 🤷‍♂️

The communication on the new rules has been clear as mud. Pedestrians either still wait for the traffic to clear to cross, cars don't give way to the pedestrians, or other drivers get confused why other cars are giving way to the pedestrians. All of which I think makes people less likely to follow the new rules since the added confusion can then cause more risk.

Wherever possible and safe to do so, I give way to pedestrians wishing to cross side roads/roundabouts. My sister (sitting in the car with me), always tells me that "you are about the only one who reads these rules and is up to date with them". This is actually thanks to you Ashley, but the thing is, it does feel most often like she is right. People honking horns, trying to go around, misinterpreting what is happening, etc. I feel these new rules have added an additional layer of risk and complications to it all. I am not against them. I do think they come from a good/sensible place, but, as you said, there needs to be a SERIOUS push for educating the public. If I can see ads at every turn for Rings of Power or whatever other TV/movie out there, we should have the new updates for the Highway Code plastered the same way everywhere. Some of these rules are contrary to how traffic laws operated for decades. It will take a huge campaign to re-educate road users.

Since the changes, if I’m on the path (on foot or cycling slowly) I stop well before/out the way of a junction or crossing so I can assess when I think there’s a safe gap for me to cross without hindering traffic at all, my mindset being “I prefer to work around traffic rather than have traffic work around me” I find it makes for safer road use and generally better flow

As a pedestrian we hope for drivers behaving predictably more than anything else. All these new rules do is add confusion and ambiguity to lots of situations.

You said roundabouts are classed as junctions, yet: 1) The Highway Code has a separate set of rules for 'Road junctions' (170 to 183) and 'Roundabouts' (184 to 190) and the new H2 rule only says to give priority to pedestrians 'at a junction' 2) It was only added to rule 170 (in the section 'Road junctions'), but not to rule 187 (in the section 'Roundabouts') which is the only rule that mentions how to deal with pedestrians at a roundabout and goes as follows 'In all cases watch out for and give plenty of room to pedestrians who may be crossing the approach and exit roads' 3) The wording of the H2 rule doesn't fit roundabouts either as by exiting a roundabout you are not 'turning into a road'. There's no road markings on exit from a roundabout, it's a continuation of the road you are already on. I am not arguing whether it was meant to apply on roundabouts or not, all I am saying is that the Highway Code itself doesn't suggest that it does.

The pedestrian updates are dam right dangerous. I have got into arm waving arguments with motorists trying to let me cross at a three lane roundabout. If I can’t see lane 2 and 3 I’m not crossing.

I know the new rules but to a large part I ignore them - and I'm saying that as a pedestrian and motorcyclist. Totally agree with the space giving rules, but I think the 'priority changes' cause more problems. When I'm walking or on the bike I know I'm the most vulnerable and act accordingly; slow down and give up my right of way if necessary. Just walk, ride and drive with courtesy and never put your safety on someone else's hands. Also, January was 8 months ago! 😱

I think a lot of drivers can feel pressure when another driver gives way to them when they're not supposed to, and under this pressure they skip checks and rush increasing risk. The new changes with Cars giving way to pedestrians at junctions runs the same risk of putting this pressure on pedestrians who don't have the comfort of a metal box to save them from their mistakes.

Completely agree. The stopping on a roundabout one can be especially dangerous when you're on two wheels.

I'd love to see someone try and argue these new rules have *increased* road safety. From my experience so far, they've just introduced confusion, hesitation and people rushing (where accidents happen). Pretty much every single person I've stopped to let cross has just looked at me with confusion, usually waving me on and then when I didn't go, sprinted out into the road to put an end to the needless drama. The car driver behind me often also has a similar look of confusion on their face. As a pedestrian myself, I don't bloody want cars stopping for me anyway. I want them to pass and let me cross at my own pace behind them, thanks very much. Oh and like many others, I wouldn't have known about the change unless it was for this channel.

Imo they need to start painting all junctions with zebra crossings. I noticed they did that in Spain when I was abroad and it communicated clearly what should be done.

We all knew the problems that the change regarding pedestrians and right of way would cause when the announcement was first made. Lawmakers should have kept it how it was, we all got it and therefore it was much safer.

First week after the new rules were introduced and I noted a huge change in London with pedestrians crossing side roads and cars stopping for them. But then within around 2 to 3 weeks it was back to how it was, presumably because pedestrians had several near-misses with cars who didn't know the rules and deciding that it's better to be safe than sorry, and I witnessed lots of issues with cyclists (couriers and food deliveries) who didn't give a jot for pedestrians with the new rules. The only thing that does seem to have stuck with the new rules is drivers generally giving much more room to cyclists on my local roads, which if anything is a massive positive.

Wow, that government TV ad was all over the place! I do remember hearing ads on the radio at the time of the changes, but they were on a similar theme of "You need to be a good driver - visit our website to learn more" rather than just specifically saying what the new changes actually are. I live in Newcastle and I've yet to see *anyone* following the updates, either drivers or pedestrians. And honestly, I don't either (when driving or walking), because I fear it would just cause confusion at best or an accident at worst.

Thanks for making this clip Ashley. This clearly shows how bad a change to the Highway Code can be if awareness is not made available. This day and age most people have access to at least one for of media, most have multiple. What happened to the TV and radio ‘info-mercials’ of years passed? Something needs to be done as the level of confusion this is causing is likely to be fatal. The roads are bad enough with the level of selfishness and self-importance out there. At least you and other RU-vid creators are doing your best. Take care, Alan.

absolute bollocks these new rules, I've lost count of the amount of times I've nearly been rear ended because I had to stop for a pedestrian on junctions and then they tell me to carry on 🤬

As a pedestrian, I'm sick of being hurried by drivers to CROSS a road I don't want to cross yet. They sit there, flapping their hands as if we are incapable of picking a better moment - and I am ashamed to say, I get panicked and tend to run as best I can at my age, only to realise I've then got to avoid getting run over by the other miserable fockers coming the opposite way. If we aren't already crossing there's no need to give way to us. We are safer crossing after you've gone. It always looks like some do gooder making a point.... "Hey, I;m gonna SLOW DOWN all the traffic on MY side of the road - but get very impatient if you ACTUALLY make me stop, by not running in front of me while I;ve condescended to slow down to 15mph". It puts PRESSURE on us to cross when we aren't ready. WE know how fast we can walk / run / waddle ... You don't. I'll tell you what we WOULD like you to do though ... STOP PARKING YOUR ENTIRE WORLD (your car) ON THE ENTIRE PAVEMENT ... we don't give a shiny if someone might pinch it if it isn't parked in front of your window - Why should we have to wheel a CHILD into the road to get past a series of cars that empty heads thought deserved to occupy the entire pavement?

My parents went on holiday to the UK recently (we're from the Netherlands). I asked my dad if he knew about these new rules, and he didn't. While on holiday he discussed them with some UK friends, they didn't know either and were certain that my dad was mistaken. A quick Google later I got them sorted, but it's absurd how people straight up aren't even aware that things have changed. Can't really fault my dad for not knowing, but definitely seems like people who live in the UK and drive there daily should at least know that something did change.

I’ve always hated it when car’s stop to let me cross the road, even before the new rules. I always feel like I need to run because I’m holding them up if I walk at a normal speed. I see other pedestrians doing this too, so it can’t just be me, I even see them do it in your videos.

I live in Bristol and I've not seen a single car give way to pedestrians at an intersection, and I've mostly given up because of the confusion it causes. I think I have noticed better overtaking of bicycles though, so I think the public information about this may have been better

I realize my view is now old fashioned but as a regular pedestrian, cyclist, motorcyclist and car driver I believe the safety onus should rest more on the individual most at risk of personal harm. I don’t relish the position of moral and legal high ground as a pedestrian, from my hospital bed, with a couple of broken legs (or worse). And as a note - there is little chance of me willfully stopping in the middle of a busy roundabout, on my bicycle. I’ve currently got 4 working limbs and I’d like to keep it that way.

In my opinion, instead of these new changes to the HW codes, the government should have given a safety budget (if they can find the money somehow) to local authorities to gradually add pedestrian crossings at junctions and roundabouts. I have been in situations in 4:56 and 3:40. Very scary. In my case, for the situation at 3:40, the car behind actually overtook aggressively and blared their horn. How I handle things now is to approach a junction carefully and with the intention of not giving way except the pedestrian gives an indication that they will be crossing. I might be wrong here but I feel more relaxed and in more control of the situation, no matter what other road users do.

Thank you for being so honest, Ashley. I had serious doubts about the viability of the changes when I first heard about them. I've lost count of the number of times I've aborted giving way to pedestrians because of the risks from the flow and speed of other vehicles around me: they were potentially a risk to my car, but critically to pedestrians. (As a pedestrian, I overwhelmingly keep to "old-school" methods: cross when it's safe to do so, when I decide. When walking, I will often stand back from crossing points so as not to confuse or alarm other drivers, cyclists, etc.)

I hadn't seen the Gov't Campaign footage until today. Even now; you have just clarified a point where I know there was confusion - Lady with 🐕 clip. The Knowledge and Education still has a long way to go before even 50% are aware of the updates. Keep at it, Ash. Stay safe everyone 👍

Being a PDI I was out with a pupil on a lesson, and I pointed out to a pedestrian waiting to cross the road we were going to turn into. I made him aware of the new HC rules at the time. The pedestrian didn't have a scooby. So massive confusion .

Yet another spot on video. I’m 70 and I always decline a motorist’s offer to cross in front of them. The confused blue car who was giving serious thought to overtaking the stationary car has happened to me a few times. It’s even worse when the law abiding driver is in a van. Mr Confused is busy telling the van driver what a wanker he as he ploughs into me stepping out from behind the vans cover. There’s going to be a lot of headstones inscribed with ‘But, it was my priority??’

There's a YT channel called Not Just Bikes. It's brilliant in comparing Dutch practices vs N. American ones but it could just as easily apply here. The need is for every single new and redesigned junction to be built to a standard that prioritises pedestrian and cycle safety where there is a reasonable expectation of those groups using it. The Dutch have done it, as is shown in NJB's latest video. It's taken them years to get where they are but they've made huge and beneficial changes. As more and more of such junctions become visible, drivers will become accustomed to giving priority to vulnerable road users.

I’m a regular watcher of your videos and I had no idea about the updates

Rather fittingly, I bought a hardcopy of the new Highway Code at a booth at the British Motor Show in Farnborough a few weeks ago...and literally just minutes after responding "Hello" to a new incoming video from Ash, with Ash even wishing me a good day at the show! I was of course well aware of the HC changes long before buying my hardcopy, much of which is thanks to Ashley's channel.

Giving pedestrians priority at the roundabout exit crossings seems like more risk than it is worth. I question why they put the crossings at the exit and not a few car lengths further down.

Your channel is the only reason I’ve even heard of the updates. The authority hasn’t managed to reach me through any medium whatsoever

A few months ago, shortly after the new regulations came in force, I asked a couple of local community officers to clarify if I needed to wait at roundabout for pedestrians to cross and was told that I only needed to wait at T junctions. So it seems as if it's not only motorists that still need to educate themselves.

the amount of times as a driver, pedestrians don't get it when I stop t let them cross, when turning into a junction, and as a pedestrian the amount of cars that don't stop to let you cross, clearly shows the lack of communication! Oh and that's twice my passing the horse rider clip has appeared in Ashleys videos. The first was with the ambulance as well. I get the 10MPH bit and take it on the chin and will learn. Thanks Ashley for educating us all. Never too old to learn when we are driving.

The biggest problem has been the lack of publicity. That's the first time I've seen that advert. I agree with the changes except the requirement to give way when leaving a roundabout. In my experience it is rarely safe to do this and on two lane exits you are relying on both yourself and the driver in the adjacent lane seeing the pedestrian and also stopping. It just doesn't work.

As a viewer from Canada, your new rules are much closer to what we have had for many decades. Having frequently travelled in Britain I’m glad of your videos. I knew and followed the old rules and it would appear that without you, I’d not be aware of the changes on my next visit. Especially if the locals aren’t aware of them. Maybe now Boris is out things may change but I shan’t hold my breath.

When I was learning to drive in 1972 my instructor explained the hierarchy of road users as a matter of common sense. The more vulnerable always has priority. “Whar are you going to do, run them over”.

As a pedestrian I absolutely hate the changes. I want to use my own judgement when crossing roads filled with huge heavy metal machinery, not have half switched on drivers attempt to do that from within the safety of their own cars. While the new rules are well-intentioned, they're seriously flawed until there are significant changes made to pretty much every junction in the country.

I do think the update has made things more dangerous, but with the idea that safety was their priority.. I definitely wouldn't be stopping on a roundabout unless it was quiet, they're lethal enough as they are from my experience. I do think the highway code is in date, it's just the infrastructure which its about is severely out of date, and unless you can find someone with several billions of loose change, that won't be upgraded any time soon.

The only reason I knew about the changes is because of this channel 😃😃 thank you Ashley

The problem from the start was how the information was given out. It went from some important updates to a complete controversial joke no one wanted to follow. I see it many times when walking, that people just don't bother following these new rules or are oblivious to them. Which means the people who do follow them look strange and dangerous. I too have stopped my car and felt like a lemon just sat there waiting for the blank minded pedestrian to cross, even tempted to wave them across. It's rare that people are switched on these days.

Agree with this. Safety has not been increased but confusion has.

The priority for cyclists passing on the near side at junctions is positively dangerous. I can see the idea behind it, but it only takes one driver to not check before turning left, or expect that ALL vehicles behind them will wait, and that cyclist is roadkill. As an occasional cyclist I'm never going to take the risk.

Totally agree. The key point is if it's safe to do so. Stopping on any roundabout where there are other vehicles is not safe imo. The white private hire car also showed that it wasnt safe to let those pedestrians cross. I think slowing to walking pace as you turn in, ready to stop if they cross is much safer than stopping to let them cross. It is similar to flashing your lights to let someone through, confusion is the result. You made a point in a previous video that zebra crossings at roundabouts would solve any confusion. Where I live they did just that when the rules changed and it works. Why not put them at every junction, although the rules would need to be slightly different as you would need to stop on them to emerge onto the road

The best hope is that these new rules lead to better designs at junctions and particularly roundabouts. Having pedestrian crossings at grade level - meaning motorists have to go up a raised platform and, by necessity, slow down - will make it much more intuitive who gives priority. That will, of course, take a long time.

Lots of roundabouts near me where I cross the road to get to the local shopping centre and I don't think anyone has ever stopped for me since January. I didn't know some of this stuff. Good video.

I had a similar situation to your first clip happen to me at a four way junction. The pedestrian hesitated too long so I turned in as the other cars were already annoyed I wasn't driving at 40 in a 20. There's a serious disconnect between the rules and reality going on which I think is partly down to poor communication but also selfishness.

I've been educating friends and family when we've been out and I've been really suprised at how many of them aren't aware of exactly what the new changes were and what they should be changing in thier driving. I would say they are all good, safe drivers and are generally pretty good at trying to keep up to date with changes like this. It just seems to be how poorly they've been advertised or explained, some know there have been changes and understand some aspects but not all of them and like Ashley's clip of the lady and the dog, the people I've spoken to just aren't 100% sure on those kinds of intricacies. Thanks for helping us to educate others Ashley.

The hardest part for me is roundabouts where I (and most drivers behind me no doubt) have grown up looking to accelerate away from the junction, lights permitting, rather than looking to stop again for pedestrians. Going to take a while to change my practice.

I experienced this rule 1st hand recently, as I was approaching a t junction a guy didn’t hesitate to walk onto the road to cross in front of me, I didn’t expect him to do so but was aware of the rule and stopped, we acknowledged each other, however it was unnerving that he was willing to put his safety on the line because of this rule. I’m sure this is just going to create more confusion and arguments. Great channel by the way 👍

The highway code updates are pretty meaningless when, as you say, the culture of how different people use the roads and pavements has been embedded for years and years without change. We need better road and street engineering to help with this. Things like raised pavements and crossings across junctions, give way lines set back from the junction entry to enforce priority, better traffic calming and passing points for pedestrians, better cycle lane access across junctions (rather than having to drop down to road level and give way) etc. A lot of things need to change in this country to make a difference. We also need a culture change of driver attitude. I'm a regular cyclist and I'm treated as an annoying inconvenience by a lot of drivers. I'm regularly close passed and when I do take the primary position, I'm punishment passed, swerved at or even subjected to road rage. As well as better road and street engineering, we need a better driver culture. One thing that won't change without these is impatient actions. Most of my problems when cycling come from impatient drivers. They seem hell bent on nearly hitting me to save seconds. I had a Volvo squeeze past me the other day, literally brushing by my left leg so they could progress through a junction with a left turn light. They were so close I could touch their car, which I did. They didn't like that. How long did they save? 5 seconds. Two drivers from last week who passed me closely, one after the other, are getting letters from the police as we speak. It's so bad now that I cannot take a single bicycle journey without something bad happening, such is the impatient and downright stupid attitude of some motorists. In summary, I agree. The highway code changes have done absolutely nothing. If anything, they have only made it easier to report bad driving, but I don't feel any safer on mu bike. The government messaging has been weak and pretty pointless. As with everything driving related in this country, car is king. Until this attitude is addressed nothing will change. Things like the massive roundabout recently built in my village to accommodate thousands of houses worth of extra traffic on already insufficient infrastructure make me sad. The powers that be still seem hell bent on laying more tarmac and concrete to handle even more traffic. It's not the way to go and makes all of the climate messaging seem like absolute nonsense. Until we change the culture, driver attitudes will remain the same.

I personally think stopping on a roundabout to give way to pedestrians opens up the threat of a rear shunt or side swipe as cars behind or to the side may not see the pedestrians and expect a car who should be allowing the roundabout to ‘flow’ to suddenly stop. This rule should not apply at roundabouts as they are designed to keep traffic flowing not to stop!

Interesting to hear there was something on TV to inform the public of the HC changes. I never saw them either. I do have to wonder how long it's going to take (if ever) for all / the majority of road users to be on board with these changes.

That's a good point on a bike when making a righ turn. I had this situation to me today, where I could see a lot of people want to cross and know I should let them, but I did not feel one bit comfortable stopping in the middle of a busy road to let people cross when I know there are cars approaching fast behind me that might not expect me to stop.

I wrote to my local papers to point out the confusion and mentioned some specific junctions where there are potential problems. I hope this, more targeted, approach might make people think about their own area and where they need to apply the new rules.

Had an interesting one recently. Whilst cycling (and I also do drive), I was approaching a road on my right which I wanted to turn into. I could see that there was a car waiting to emerge. I was toward the centre line ( not a particularly wide road) and had my right arm extended to indicate my right turn (I wear a bright orange cycle helmet and use lights during daylight to try to improve my visibility). Just as I reached the point to turn right, (in front of the car) the car began to emerge, saw me and stalled part way out of the junction. I continued my turn, and as I passed the side of the car, the lady driving it shouted "You need to read the highway code, it's changed now and you have to give way to me"!

My concern is that these changes reduce safety by introducing confusion. Somebody stopping to let pedestrians cross has too many possibilities to CAUSE accidents. I am unsure that these were ever thought threw. Rather like the introduction of seat belts in vehicles that were never designed for them. Heads instead of modifying a relatively soft windscreen, started modifying a narrow very solid steering wheel. Result a significant increase in head trauma.

I'm not a driver/cyclist. I'm only aware of these rules from watching this channel. From my experience it's obvious that most motorists are either unaware or ignore the new rules. The infomercial you showed seemed clear as mud!

So, I regularly watch Ashley's videos but I know that I have made some mistakes with this new rules. I give way at junctions and at roundabouts, though I have almost ended up in collisions where other people are not paying attention.. so I've tended to avoid stopping on the roundabout because of this increased risk near me (plympton).

Excellent video. Shows the pitfalls when following the new laws, yet so few know them.

I know this would take an absolute age to force everyone to get updated But what if driving licences were only valid for 15~20 years So people had to retake their tests to prove they are still capable of driving safely (with the new rules) Too many people pick up bad habits over time

You have to have a licence to obtain permission to drive a car on the road which can be withdrawn and you have to pay every year to get temporary permission to take your vehicle on the road. Roads are public spaces which pedestrians, cyclists and horse riders have a right to use. There are rules which help everyone stay safe and minimise inconvenience, but the general attitude of car drivers is that they have the right to be there and everyone should stay out of their way. Towns and cities and urban areas are much nicer places to be if cars are treated as the intruders. I say this as a car driver who would be inconvenienced by re-prioritising road users in this way.

if gov wants pedestrians to have priority, they should put zebra crossings everywhere. all drivers know we should stop for pedestrians in this case

Ash, an exception to the new rules of letting pedestrians cross at a junction *_Should_* be when leaving a Roundabout. Not clearing the 'junction (ie. roundabout) leads to far greater risk to all road users than stopping in it. Allowing pedestrians to cross at the junction on the entry to a roundabout is fine, but no at the exit. Pedestrians *_Should_* treat this like crossing a main carriageway. wait for a safe space/gap in the traffic, or use the nearest signalled crossing point. When I am walking, or cycling, I will not expect vehicles exiting a roundabout to give way to me wanting to cross, but I do expect traffic entering or leaving a roundabout to *_SIGNAL_* as it's the single crucial bit of information you need to aid your descision to cross or not. Singals are not just for the other drivers, they are for everyone!

According to Google maps I walk between 3 - 4.5 miles and since the changes I've had several close encounters, almost all of which were on a roundabout which has a bend on its approach. And so far I've been given appropritate priority *14* times. Incidentally it's members of the car trade (trade plates showing) who seem to be the most switched on. And like in your clip with the VW, it's the German car & Chelsea tractor drivers who usually fail to yield or race to the roundabout without looking.

Never seen or heard of that campaign you showed, although I am aware of the changes. When driving I'm still encountering clueless pedestrians that dont realise you're letting them cross, and impatient drivers who don't seem to understand why I'm doing it. As a pedestrian I'm also yet to have a vehicle stop to let me cross at a junction. 🤷‍♂️

Mandatory 3-5year retests need to be brought in. That’s about the only way we might get people to pay any attention to the rules of the road rather than how many of those ‘mph’ points they can score.

I just passed my theory test and I'm looking forward to my practical driving test, these videos are great sir, you're doing god's work!

Honestly I thought a few of these were the rule anyway, I always give way to pedestrians when turning into a T junction. Letting pedestrians go while exiting a roundabout won't catch on, that just seems unnecesserily dangerous, I wouldn't walk across like that when I can just wait a second for the car to get out of the way.

Thanks Ashley! When a pedestrian, I only appreciate being given way when there is more, busier traffic. People doing it when there's no-one around, and they could have just gone on past -and it all takes much longer and uses more fuel- makes me feel awkward, and wary of what's behind them, possibly overtaking. With the new rules the answer is to stand well back so you can go when you choose and not feel pressured. When i'm driving i dislike those who are stopping to flash me(!) from side roads, often having been approaching at speed. I think oh it would have been quicker if you'd just gone past or slow down so ppl. can pull out ahead of you. I guess I like to know who has priority and try to stick to it. It's my pet hate 'cos they think they're being nice and you can't be mean! I try to go slow, at a steady pace, and leave a gap ahead so other road users can use their discretion.These new rules are confusing and are dangerous until everybody follows them.

Have to say I haven't noticed much at all in terms of change of road user behaviour as a result of the HC changes. Perhaps the very occasional "wider" pass by a motorist for a cyclist but that's about it. As a pedestrian, I've noticed the exact same disregard by motorists turning in or out of side streets when I'm trying to cross those streets on foot. No difference whatsoever and as Ashley said, these changes have largely (and unfortunately) been a waste of time.

I was beeped at and shouted at by a driver when I crossed his exit route from a roundabout on my bike, he had plenty of time to come off the accelerator and didn't need to even brake before I was out the way but was not happy about losing a fraction of a second! Being the way I am I rechecked the new rules in the highway code and couldn't find roundabouts mentioned, I thought well I'm actually in the wrong here. I'm pleased you've mentioned that roundabouts are supposed to be treated the same as junctions in this respect, thank you. After the incident though I decided just to err on the side of caution and let drivers do what they want to, it is a "should" give way anyway, and they may consider it unsafe to risk being rear-ended by someone not expecting them to give way/not paying attention. Just today a cyclist in front of me got beeped by a van driver turning into a junction the cyclist was crossing, I don't know now whether its worth the risk to even try as a cyclist you're going to come off much worse than the motor vehicle.

I was in my work van, turning right into a side road. I gave way to a pedestrian and they didn't cross. The car behind me soon got on their horn and in the end I had to just carry on. I glanced at the mirror afterwards and the pedestrian crossed just as I went past. I expected this, but it was still frustrating!

I said from the outset that while the changes may be good, the publicity and education prior to (and now since) their introduction has been abysmal, totally undermining their value. Even worse, what publicity there was has been left in the hands of Britain's notoriously hateful tabloid 'news' papers and the cut'n'paste local press. No wonder some drivers (and it's mostly drivers, and social media commenters pretending they're old enough to drive) are even angrier about vulnerable road-users than they were before. Now they can get purpleptic about those who apply the new rules as well. It's not the rules that are at fault, it's those who either don't know them or who choose to ignore them - and that is down to the people who introduced them. Brilliant work DfT!

I must admit this channel is the only place I have seen the interpretation of the changes to including stopping to give way on an exit to a roundabout. The section of the highway code that specifically covers roundabouts had not been updated to reflect this so my interpretation would initially be that this isn't the case - because that specifically describes how to treat pedestrians at roundabouts. I've not seen anything on this on the official gov website or from the AA etc. I do respect Ashley's expertise but would like to get some clarification on this via more official channels.

That was the first time I have seen the public service video about the new rules. That is appalling. It should have been publicised much better. I have said this for years: although drivers are required to know the highway code & its updates, there is no incentive to do so. When I last looked in WHSmith's for it, you could not even buy a Highway code on its own; only as part of a driving test kit with DVD. A re-test every 5 years should be mandatory. If you fail, you have 6 months to pass before you lose your licence. Anyone who cannot manage this is simply not safe enough to drive.

I tried using the new rules when they were first implemented and (I'm not exaggerating) the situation turned dangerous every time I tried to do it on a busy road. Confusion was rife, and I refuse to do it anymore - I don't want it and, more importantly, pedestrians don't seem to want it either. Laughably, there is another section of the HWC that tells you not to wave people to cross the road because they may not be ready. That is in direct contradiction with the message behind these new rules which can quickly place a pedestrian into a panic situation if they're not ready to cross and perhaps do something dangerous. The idea comes from a good place, but it doesn't gel with human nature at all.

As a cyclist and motorist the 1.5M rule is annoying. I hate having a tail of pissed off motorists on my shoulder when there’s easily enough room for them to get by. 1.5m is ridiculous I only need a foot clearance

While the new rules don't apply over here, in residential areas, people give way to crossing pedestrians all the time. I do it. The trouble I'm having is teaching my little one how to cross a road, is hindered by people stopping and waving us across. Because it spoils the lesson and I have to take charge of the crossing to speed it up. Instead I like to give control of our crossing to my daughter and get her to tell me when it's safe... then some nice person stops for us and waves us across. That situation takes a LOT more explaining. The HUGE risk is for the child to bolt out when ONE car signals them to cross. They may be completely unaware of the boy racer rapidly accelerating the other way.

As a pedestrian I frequently have to cross at a local roundabout, I’ve not experienced a motorist comply with the Highway Code since the rule change. As a cyclist generally the space given and timing of passing motorists has Improved but not tho the described standards. As a motorist attempting to comply is difficult due to the confusion or lack of knowledge of all parties. Bravo for your efforts in pushing the message at to people.

A 3 min vpn ad in a 9 min video. Come on.

Agree with you Ashley. Every day I encounter the same problem, either pedestrians or other drivers have no idea about the new rules, and they mostly get confused by me stopping, giving way and etc. This creates more problems than if there wasn't any update with the highway code. So I have adapted myself, if there is no driver around, I am trying to give way to pedestrians, if there are other cars, especially those who are coming behind, then I am trying to not give way as they might try to overtake and cause a collision which would be very unfortunate.

Ideally driving behaviour would be the same across the UK. However, in different regions, there will be differing levels of education. My concern is that someone may move from a place where there is heavy promotion of the changes by individuals like yourself, to a place where there isn't, and that could be dangerous for them and others. Safety rules which are applied unpredictably might cause more harm than no rules at all because people can make incorrect assumptions about the responsibilities that others have accepted.

Persnally, I think these new Highwsy Code rules are extremely dangerous. I'm sure that there has been a huge increase in vehicles getting 'rear ended,' too, due to impatient drivers.

This Highlights the fact that every 10 years when we renew our licenses we should have a test

Was walking to work the other day and came to a crossing. A police car was coming so I stopped, looked and waited for my new privilege to be granted, which never came. That cemented it for me.

the cyclist rules I agree with, The pedestrian stuff is silly and was made by regulators who probably walk to work and simply wanted to make their journey easier

Stopping for pedestrians whilst exiting a roundabout can be dangerous and even though a roundabout is technically a junction, albeit with different guidance, there is nothing in the new Highway Code that shows pedestrians have the right of way in these situations. In fact, such is the confusion over the new regulations I sought clarification from the Department of Transport who confirmed that the objective of the hierarchy of road users is not to give priority to pedestrians and/or cyclists but to ensure a more mutually, respectful and more considerate culture of safe and effective road use. Safety must be a priority and circumstances will determine when to allow waiting pedestrians to cross. In other words, it is clear that individual circumstances will determine if it is safe to give way to pedestrians waiting to cross and drivers are expected to exert their own judgement to ensure the safety of themselves and other road users. Factors to consider include the presence of following traffic , the speed of approach, visibility and the actions of the person/s waiting to cross. However, drivers should not put pedestrians at risk should they fail to give way to someone who is already crossing the road. In conclusion, the rules in the Highway Code do not give any road user the right of way in any circumstance other than to advise when to give way and to avoid an incident. Cyclists and pedestrians are indeed required to comply with road traffic law in the interests of their own safety and that of other road users.

This new rule is hugely dangerous someone could crash into the back of someone

The situation at 5:46 is what has scared me from the outset. If I wait for a pedestrian to cross when turning right into my road (off of a busy main road), I'm worried a car opposite me (also waiting to turn) thinks I'm letting them go. Having someone opposite turning into the same road happens frequently enough to worry me that someone will get hurt. Appreciate your honest appraisal of the rules and the lackluster information campaign Ashley.

Hi Ashley, Yet another useful video. I must admit, I hadn’t seen the clip that you showed. Maybe the motoring organisations should advertise these campaigns/updates on tv instead of showing useless ads that are no use to animal or beast. I do know of the update introduced in January 2020 and adjust my driving accordingly, but I know a lot of drivers are not aware by their inability to deal with pedestrians in the correct way. I could write a book on the subject but I have kept it short and to the point. Keep up the good work that you do

As a pedestrian, since the new rules have been introduced I've had so many drivers either: - Speed up to 'punish me' at me while I'm crossing in front of them; - Beep their horn at me while I'm crossing in front of them; - Shout abuse at me through the window once I've crossed because Iv'e slowed them down. The problem isn't the new rules, but that some drivers feel that they have more right to the road than other users. Surprisingly - from my experience so far - white van drivers have been the ones most likely to adhere to the new rules and many black cab drivers have too (though this has been outweighed by the number of taxi drivers that have sped up at me as punishment).

Recently did a HGV driver CPC module where this was discussed and the whole room of 20 drivers was really worried about how dangerous the right of way at junctions if going ahead for cyclists was going to be in cities with a high percentage of cyclists. It also created a very anti pedestrian and cyclist attitude especially as they aren’t even required to read the Highway Code. Surely if there’s legislation regarding your use of roads then you should be required to know it just like the other road users?

The problem is that for a large percentage of road users, it seems that once they have passed their test that any thought of the highway code goes out of the window until there is an accident. I was cut up by a driver years ago whilst cycling up the Pershore Road in Selly Park, Birmingham. The car driver pulled out of a side road turning right into the outer lane and then immediately turned across me into a left hand side road forcing me to slam my brakes on. While I was remonstrating with her, I suggested that she should brush up on the highway code, to which her reply was that she didn't need to read it. With the awareness of the fact that people don't seem to be aware of any number highway code changes over the years, let alone the most recent one, and the bad habits drivers seem to get into, I strongly believe that drivers need to have a mandatory re-test every 10 years or so, with failure meaning that you are forced to take a refresher course and resitting another test before you are allowed back on the road.

made me realise i wasnt fully sure but ashley as usual clears everything up i am just waiting till somebody rear ends me when i stop for a pedestrian not thought these rules out very well

Excellent report. I totally agree with your conclusion, I don't feel enough people understand what to do, which in turn causes confusion. One of the biggest concerns I have about road safety is the proportion of people who follow less than one car length behind. It causes extra pressure for the car in front. Also, people are so focused on the car in front, they aren't aware of what is going on. I don't think these changes will work unless that changes. Why do so few people follow the 2/4 second rule! Is my rear bumper magnetic?!

I think driving standards are abysmal today in general, but not all, obviously! I’m 75 and was taught at 17 by a friend who was a police and army driving instructor. I passed my, motorbike and car tests first time, I like to do things well! He was a totally clear and pragmatic person who took no prisoners, and was a serious major on common sense! I’ve driven possibly 500,000 miles plus, and thousands on motorbikes as well! I’m not squeaky clean, and do when safe beyond doubt go a little quicker than the official limits and take great care whilst doing so! No accidents in 60 years! But...I honestly think some of these new rules are going to be a real problem to us all! Deaths or injuries included! The prime cause is the mad pace of life today, whereby we all are simply not giving due care and attention with enough of our brain power! So the answer...is your suggestion, that must become enacted, in that a major push by government to get public information films made and shown regularly at peak viewing times, over and over, with all tv channels in full support too! Social media barons should also volunteer their screen times too! Wake up RU-vid and the rest of you! Well done for raising this issue and for better informing me than I previously was! Cheers

Personally, I'm not a fan of the new code as it gives people a sense of safety that they can cross without issue. Also drivers are over anticipating. Where as I prefer the pedestrian style of "Playing it safe". Just involving crossing when there's a big enough gap or the car has made it very clear it's safe for me to walk. Most of the time , as a pedestrian, If I see a few cars coming whilst waiting to cross at a roundabout I'll look away from them so they only really have 1 option which is to focus on the roundabout. I'd be surprised if it's made roads safer for pedestrians and road users (Whilst not increasing the amount of hard breaking/ running across roads due to lack of anticipation) also fully believe not many pedestrians are conscious of the new rules. I don't know any non drivers who'd keep up to date with road changes. Another note, why not just add zebra crossing to all/ specific junctions. We all know what they mean. Wrote this just before 5:35 and totally agree with your pointing there.

People get the highway code when they are learning to drive, then never look at it again. These changes are just something else to ignore, just like getting in the correct lane, parking too close to a junction, not indicating, etc etc